Hello Solar Enthusiasts,
Are you curious about the ever-evolving landscape of the solar industry? Do you want the latest scoop on energy policies, advances in solar technology, and new, monumental projects that lie in our not-so-distant future? As a self-proclaimed solar expert with a lifelong passion for renewable energy, there’s plenty I’m itching to share!
Let’s start in sunny California. The California Public Utilities Commission has recently greenlighted a subject of significant heat – the Income-Graduated Fixed Charge. What’s this, you ask? Essentially, it’s an average $24 monthly fixed charge tacked onto residential electricity bills – and it applies to everyone, no matter how high or low your energy consumption. This dubious piece of news is rekindling the debate on the affordability of electricity, reinforcing the appeal of solar panels for your home.
In the pursuit of boosting energy production, solar companies like Array Technologies are relentlessly innovating. Their latest experiment? A method known as passive stowing for solar trackers. You might wonder what this unfamiliar term means… Well, I did too! Let’s break it down together. When high winds come rushing in, solar trackers must be put in stow positions to prevent damage. The method used to achieve this stowing can affect the tracker’s energy production. Passive stowing, as compared to active stowing, could offer a promising avenue towards minimizing these losses.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of Energy is making strides to address the increasing demand for energy transmission. They recently proposed ten “national interest” transmission corridors hoping to streamline the process. Solar companies are watching this development closely, as it may open avenues for more robust and efficient energy transmission.
Interestingly, despite America’s continued reliance on fossil fuels, things are looking up for the solar industry. According to a recent report by the Energy Information Administration, solar will be responsible for over 60% of new U.S. electricity generation in 2024. This means it’s high time to consider installing a solar array for your home.
But it’s not just about individual homeowners using solar power. Major projects are underway too. Cypress Creek Renewables just brought online a whopping 208 MW / 80 MWh solar-plus-storage facility in Texas. Serving the equivalent of 41,600 homes, this project is a testament to the potential of solar, further bolstering the argument for residential solar panels.
And that is the beauty of the solar industry – it’s dynamic, continually growing, and filled with brilliant minds ready to usher us into the sustainable future we all dream of. Whether you are considering a solar array for your home or simply keeping tabs on your favorite solar companies, let’s journey this exciting road together, one solar panel at a time.
Until next time,
Your Solar Enthusiast.
Original Articlehttps://pv-magazine-usa.com/2024/05/10/u-s-solar-industry-week-in-review-9/
